Yankees Grapple with Mounting Injuries During Spring Training

Top pitching prospect Chase Hampton and key players face setbacks as New York's preseason begins on a challenging note.

Chase Hampton, the Yankees' second-ranked pitching prospect, is dealing with a flexor strain and potential UCL damage, raising concerns about a lengthy absence or Tommy John surgery.
Hampton's injury follows a challenging 2024 season, during which he was sidelined for much of the year due to similar elbow issues and a lower-body injury.
Starting pitcher Clarke Schmidt is experiencing back discomfort, though manager Aaron Boone downplayed its severity and expressed optimism about his readiness for Opening Day.
Additional injuries include reliever Jake Cousins with a forearm strain, backup outfielder Trent Grisham with a hamstring issue, and reliever Clayton Beeter, who is managing a shoulder concern.
Despite the setbacks, the Yankees' rotation remains anchored by Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, and Luis Gil, with Marcus Stroman confirmed to start the team's spring training opener against the Rays.